Structure
The Hebrew word in the numerical center of the psalm is a word that means "in Heaven". The psalm is carefully arranged in Hebrew so that at the very center are the words "God, in heaven enthroned" (verse 4b).
The psalmist clearly wants us to know that no matter what is happening here on earth, God is still the King over all.
What Can the Righteous Do?
Psalm 11:1-3
David begins by expressing his personal trust in God, but the rest of this first section lays out the concerns of his companions. The very foundation of their life seems to be falling apart. The wicked are aiming to kill David. They are scheming to shoot him from secret.
What is going on in your life that you fear? Do you feel like your foundation has been destroyed?
What can the righteous do when the world around them crumbles?
David gives his answer in the next section.
God is Enthroned in Heaven
Psalm 11:4
Don't look to the mountains as David's companions have suggested. No, the real answer is much, much higher. Look to the Lord. He is seated on His throne in Heaven.
In other words, God is the final authority. He is the sovereign King over all. When everything else seems to crumble, there is God, firm and secure, seated on His throne.
He sees the righteous and the wicked - He sees all and He will judge.
God is Righteous and Just
Psalm 11:5-7
Destruction is coming for the wicked. So, place your full trust in God and His protection.
We can trust God because He is righteous and just. In the end justice will prevail. As Paul says in Galatians 6:9
And let us not grow weary of doing good, for in due season we will reap, if we do not give up.
This post is part of a series on the Psalms.
by Jerry Wyrick, President of Worship Arts Conservatory